Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
Residents urge sidewalks after school-boundary change affecting roughly 50 students
Loading...
Summary
Neighbors told the Smithfield City Council boundary changes will put about 50 children in the Sunrise Elementary walk zone but key sidewalks along the walking route are missing; residents asked the council to prioritize sidewalks and suggested interim police assistance.
Multiple residents raised safety concerns during public comment at the Feb. 11 Smithfield City Council meeting after recent Cache County School District boundary changes that place about 50 children in the Sunrise Elementary walking zone.
Kaley Crane, who lives in the Stone Haven Big Sky neighborhood, told the council the most direct walking route crosses 600 South, a roundabout, the Sky View High School parking lot, and 450 East, and that 300 East and 300 South lack sidewalks on busy stretches. "Children in my area will now attend Sunrise Elementary School and are within the designated walk zone; however, there are no sidewalks along key portions of the route," Crane said, estimating the change affects at least 50 children.
Resident McKell Hecker, who said she holds a leadership position in her church and is familiar with the number of affected children, echoed Crane’s safety concerns and told the council parents may not be able to provide daily transportation for all students. Resident and community volunteer Lizette Villegas suggested interim measures such as having police officers assist in the area while sidewalk projects proceed and noted some parents who park at Summit Elementary might be able to help.
City Manager Justin Lewis and staff noted sidewalks are on the city’s Sidewalk Plan and that some sidewalk work has been delayed by tree issues; staff said continued discussion on sidewalks will be part of the new budget cycle. No immediate funding or construction start date was committed at the meeting.
Why it matters
The absence of sidewalks on key blocks of students’ walking routes raises immediate safety concerns for families now within the walk zone. Residents urged accelerated action and interim safety measures; council discussion placed the matter in the upcoming budget conversation rather than committing to immediate installation.
What’s next
Staff said sidewalk needs will be considered during the FY2027 budget process and that the city will continue planning work. Residents seeking faster interim assistance were directed to coordinate with police about possible temporary measures.